Damn the weather; village to open splash pad

The long-awaited splash pad in the Village of Fredonia didn’t make its goal of opening this summer.

But it’s going to be up and running this fall just long enough to make sure it works before going into hibernation.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the splash pad on the east side of the parking lot at Marie Kraus Park across from the restrooms and near the disc golf course is set for 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1.

Village Administrator Christophe Jenkins will thank donors and recognize supporters, including a local contractor.

“This splash pad would not be happening if not for Andrew J  Construction stepping up and donating his time, labor and expertise,” Jenkins told the Village Board this month.

The pad costs around $350,000, with much of that money raised via donations.

The splash pad is being named after Port Washington State Bank, which was the largest contributor, with a matching grant and a donation totaling $50,000.

Given the weather has turned, Jenkins said, the splash pad will only get a quick test run.

“We’ll make sure all the features work, winterize it and then plan for a fun first opening in spring for families,” he said.

The Village Board had the option to wait until spring to open the pad, but trustees said they want residents to see it in action this fall and build excitement for using it come spring.